H.R.901 - Research Security and Accountability in DHS Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 901, the "Research Security and Accountability in DHS Act," mandates the Under Secretary of the Science and Technology Directorate of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to develop a Department-wide policy and process to safeguard research and development from unauthorized access or disclosure of sensitive information. It also requires a GAO report on DHS compliance with National Security Presidential Memorandum-33 (NSPM-33) and related guidelines.
The bill further stipulates a congressional briefing by the Secretary of Homeland Security on the development of these policies and processes. The aim is to enhance the security of sensitive research within DHS and ensure compliance with national security directives.
This bill seeks to protect sensitive research data and maintain national security by preventing unauthorized access and disclosure.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely result in the creation of new policies and processes within DHS to protect sensitive research data. It will also increase oversight and accountability through the required GAO report and congressional briefing.
This could lead to improved security of research and development acquisitions within the Department of Homeland Security. It may also lead to increased bureaucracy and compliance costs for researchers and the department.
Ultimately, the bill aims to strengthen national security by safeguarding sensitive information and ensuring adherence to established guidelines.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced protection of sensitive research data within the Department of Homeland Security.
- Increased accountability and oversight of research security practices.
- Improved compliance with national security directives and guidelines.
- Strengthened national security by preventing unauthorized access to sensitive information.
- Greater coordination among federal agencies regarding research security.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased bureaucracy and compliance costs for researchers.
- Possible delays in research and development projects due to new security protocols.
- Risk of hindering open scientific collaboration if security measures are too restrictive.
- Potential for over-classification of information, limiting public access to research findings.
- The act may not be effective if not properly implemented or if adversaries find ways to circumvent the new security measures.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the US Constitution's broad goals of providing for the common defense and promoting the general welfare, as stated in the Preamble. Specifically, by safeguarding sensitive research and development within the Department of Homeland Security, the bill contributes to national security, a core function of the federal government.
While the Constitution does not explicitly address research security, the implied powers doctrine allows Congress to enact legislation necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers, such as providing for national defense (Article I, Section 8). The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
However, implementation must be carefully monitored to ensure it does not unduly restrict academic freedom or freedom of speech, potentially implicating the First Amendment.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).